Post-Op Instructions

Root Canal Therapy
You can expect soreness after a root canal procedure for a few days – this is normal post operative sensitivity and will gradually subside. You should avoid chewing on the side of your mouth where the procedure was performed for a few hours to ensure that the temporary restorative material properly sets.  If you notice an increasing amount of pain or tenderness, or the loss of the temporary restoration (filling) call your dentist.  After your root canal, you will most likely need either a filling or crown to restore the tooth so you can safely chew.  Be sure to schedule this as soon as possible to avoid fracture or loss of tooth. 

Crowns and Bridges
It is normal to feel some sensitivity after your procedure.  Ibuprofen or Tylenol can be helpful if necessary.  The tooth is likely cold sens and the gums may be sore as well.  This usually subsides after a day or two as the gums and tooth heal.  Some people will have slight discomfort until the permanent crown or bridge is placed.    Before you receive your permanent crown/bridge you will wear a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should pull the floss out to the side (not up) when flossing because it could dislodge your temporary. You should be careful eating as well.  Avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in – these foods can pull the temporary crown off.  If your bite does not feel even with your temporary, call so that we can adjust it for you. 

When the permanent crown or bridge is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth.  If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know. Caring for your bridge or crown is just like caring for your own teeth. You should brush and floss regularly.

White Composite Fillings (Bonding)
After the anesthesia wears off your teeth may be sensitive.  This is common after having any procedure done.  After that initial period, your treated teeth will feel as good as new. Continue your excellent brushing and flossing to ensure that your fillings last for a long time.  If your bite does not feel even after your anesthesia wears off, call us so that we can adjust it for you. 

Scaling and Root Planing
After this procedure your gums will probably be slightly sore and irritated for a few days. You should rinse your mouth with warm salt water (1 tsp salt/8 oz water) 2-3 times a day. You may also want to take Ibuprofen (200-400 mg) for pain if necessary.  Brushing and flossing should be continued right after the procedure, but you should brush gently so that you do not further irritate the area. If you experience any swelling or stiffness in the area you can place a cold compress on the area.   

Veneers
Before you receive your permanent veneer you will first receive a temporary restoration. This is not as sturdy as the permanent version, so you should be careful when cleaning and eating. You should brush the area gently and should not pull up on the tooth when flossing because it could become dislodged. The same goes for eating. You should avoid sticky or chewy foods while you have the temporary in.

There may be some sensitivity and irritation after the temporary or permanent veneer is placed. This is normal and will subside after the area heals. A warm salt water rinse will help, and you can also take Advil or Tylenol if necessary.

When the veneer is placed it may feel a little awkward for a few days. Your mouth needs to adjust to the new tooth.  If your bite feels abnormal in any way, you should let your dentist know. When brushing and flossing you should pay close attention to the area between the veneer and the tooth at the gum line.

Extractions
After the surgery you will need to rest. You need to be driven home by a friend or family member because of the anesthesia. You can expect for the extraction site to bleed for a little while after the surgery.  Gauze will be applied at the completion of the surgery, and you will need to change it when it becomes soaked.  If bleeding continues for longer than 24 hours you should call your dentist. Rest when you return home, but do not lie flat. This could prolong the bleeding. Prop your head up on a pillow when lying down. Your dentist will prescribe you pain medication, so if you become sore take as directed. You can also use an ice pack for the pain. Your dentist might also provide you with a cleaning solution to clean the extraction site.

When drinking, make sure you do not use a straw. The sucking motion can cause a dry socket which is very painful.  The same goes for smoking.  If you have prolonged pain, bleeding, irritation, or don’t feel that the extraction site is healing properly call your dentist for a follow up.